HOLIDAY NEWSLETTER | 2024

Hello community member,

Over the past 12 months, we've helped 10 champions earn their high school equivalency diplomas by way of the GED exam. Some have moved on to technical schools, like Sharod H. (photo below), who recently completed his program at Lincoln Tech and is pursuing his dream of becoming an electrician.

In 2024, we hired three Boxwood alumni who are serving our organization in various capacities; others have come back to serve as mentors. Note: the Editor of this newsletter, Paul Arboleda, is a Boxwood graduate:)



Testimonial from a mother: "A divorce spiraled my family out of control. My youngest son refused to go to school, and when he did attend, he was disruptive and unwilling to follow the rules. A friend referred me to Boxwood, and it changed our lives. The staff, especially Marie and Laura, were persistent in making a ‘champion’ out of my son. Even when he missed several sessions or didn’t show up for days, they gave him second, third, and fourth chances. They even accommodated him on their off days, including Sundays.

Boxwood is more than just a program; it’s a family. The staff doesn’t give up on their champions. They guide, encourage, and support them every step of the way, until they cross the finish line. My son wouldn’t have received his high school diploma without Boxwood.”  

— R.S.A, A Grateful Mother

Supporting young Joshua A. wasn't easy. I even opened the office on a Sunday, my day off, to ensure he could take his GED exam at a time when he had the best chance of passing. We often celebrate the Olympic champions but rarely acknowledge the coaches who go above and beyond. It's a privilege to run an organization where the making of a champion requires sacrifice from my staff and the families of our champions. In the end, every bit of effort is worth it.

Please consider Boxwood Learning Center as part of your Giving Tuesday or become a monthly donor, starting at $5 per month!

115 W. 2nd Ave, Roselle, NJ 07203 | (908) 241-6862

www.boxwoodnj.org